The Mets are looking at various ways to improve their batting lineup and were interested in Joc Pederson even before he signed a contract with the Texas Rangers. The Post's Jon Heyman reports. Monday.
Pederson, 32, has signed a two-year, $37 million contract with the Diamondbacks after a resurgent season as a designated hitter, according to multiple reports.
The left-handed hitter, who has primarily played in the outfield during his career, had 23 home runs, 64 RBIs, a .275 average and a .908 OPS in 132 games this year, with 407 of his 449 at-bats coming against right-handed hitters. pitching.
In 2023 with the Giants, Pederson had 15 home runs, 51 RBIs, a .235 average and a .764 OPS in 121 games.
Now approaching a billion-dollar offseason, the Mets struck a deal early Monday morning to bring back Sean Manaea on a three-year, $75 million deal. This could be the last significant rotation move after previously signing Frankie Montas (2 years, $34). $1 million) and Clay Holmes (3 years, $38 million)
Even after adding Juan Soto to a record-breaking 15-year, $765 million contract, they still have questions about their lineup, mainly centering on whether to bring back Pete Alonso as first baseman. .
Their interest in Pederson suggests a desire for more left-handed power, albeit with fewer options. The rival Phillies recently acquired former Twin Max Kepler on a one-year, $10 million contract.
The Mets may bring back Jesse Winker, who appeared in 10 playoff games in October and went 7-for-22 with a home run, four RBIs, three triples and seven walks.
